Losing a tooth feels bigger than it sounds. Not only because you see it when you smile, but because chewing changes, sometimes speaking too, and because you notice something irreversible has happened.
The question that follows is almost always the same: what now? And the honest answer is that an implant is often the best solution, but not always.
What exactly is a dental implant?
An implant is an artificial root made of titanium that is placed in the jawbone. On top of it comes a crown that looks and feels like your own tooth.
The difference with a bridge or a denture is in that root. A bridge rests on the teeth next to it, a denture sits on the gum. An implant stands on its own.
That difference matters more than it seems. Your jawbone needs stimulus to keep its shape. That stimulus comes from the tooth root when you chew. Remove the root and the bone in that spot slowly recedes. An implant takes over that job.
When is an implant the right choice?
For a single missing tooth between healthy neighbours. A bridge would mean grinding down the teeth on either side. That is sacrificing healthy tissue for a solution that lasts less long. An implant leaves those neighbours alone.
For a denture that will not stay put. Two to four implants for the denture to click onto change daily life for many people more than they expect. No adhesive paste, no shifting while eating.
For a tooth that can no longer be saved. Sometimes a root canal treatment is no longer worthwhile. An implant is then often better than waiting for the bone to deteriorate further.
And when is it not?
This is the part you rarely read on a treatment page.
If you smoke. Smoking considerably increases the chance that the implant will not integrate. We would rather not place one without having that conversation first.
With untreated gum disease. An implant in inflamed gum tissue is an implant you lose later. Healthy gums first, then place.
With too little jawbone. Sometimes there is not enough bone left to hold an implant. Bone grafting is then an option, but it makes the process longer and more expensive. It is fairer to know that beforehand than halfway through.
If the rest of your mouth needs attention. Placing an implant in a mouth where other things are going on is doing it in the wrong order.
How long does it take?
Expect several months, spread across a few appointments.
- Examination and planning. X-rays, often a 3D scan, and the conversation about what is possible
- Placing the implant. Under local anaesthetic, usually within an hour
- Healing in. The implant integrates with the bone. This normally takes three to six months and is the phase where you notice nothing and have to do nothing
- The crown on top. Take an impression, place the crown, done
You will not be walking around with a gap in the meantime. We arrange a temporary solution for that.
Does it hurt?
Placing it does not, that happens under local anaesthetic. In the days afterwards you may have a tender, sometimes swollen spot. Comparable to having a molar extracted.
Most people manage with an ordinary painkiller and are back at work the next day. What we discuss carefully beforehand is what you should and should not do in those first days, because that makes more difference than an extra tablet.
What does a dental implant cost?
An implant is not a small investment, and that deserves an honest answer rather than a vague figure.
The price is made up of several parts: the examination, the implant itself, any bone grafting and the crown on top. Dental fees in the Netherlands are partly set by law, but implant treatment also involves material costs that differ per situation.
That is why you get a written quote from us in advance. Not a guide price, but a worked-out overview of what your situation needs. Then you know what you are starting.
Reimbursement depends on your supplementary insurance. A full denture on implants often falls under a different arrangement than a single tooth. Check your policy, or ask your insurer.
How long does an implant last?
With good care, decades, and often longer than a bridge or a crown.
But that “with good care” is not a get-out clause. An implant cannot get a cavity, but the gum around it can become inflamed. If that happens and goes untreated, you can still lose the implant.
Brushing, cleaning between the teeth and coming in for check-ups are therefore not side issues. They are the reason the investment pays off.
What to expect at VLIJT in Eindhoven
We are based at Strijp-S and carry out implant treatment in house.
- First working out whether it suits you. Sometimes the answer is a bridge, or doing nothing at all
- A written quote in advance, itemised and with no surprises afterwards
- Explanation in plain language, including about what can go wrong
- Aftercare that belongs with it. Placing an implant is the beginning, not the end
- We speak English. Many of our patients moved to Eindhoven for work or study, and the quote, the treatment and the aftercare can all be handled in English
Frequently asked questions
How long does a dental implant last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, decades. Keeping the gum around it healthy is the deciding factor.
Does placing an implant hurt?
No, it is done under local anaesthetic. In the days afterwards the spot is tender, comparable to an extracted molar.
What if I do not have enough jawbone?
Bone grafting is often possible. That makes the process longer and more expensive, and we discuss it before you make a decision.
Can I have an implant if I smoke?
It is possible, but the chance that it will not integrate is considerably higher. We would rather have that conversation beforehand than afterwards.
Is a dental implant covered by insurance in the Netherlands?
That depends on your supplementary insurance and on your situation. A denture on implants often falls under different rules than a single tooth.
How long does the whole process take?
Usually three to six months, most of which is waiting time while the implant integrates and you notice nothing of it.
In closing
An implant is a good solution for the right situation, and an expensive detour for the wrong one. That distinction can only be made once someone has taken a proper look at your mouth.
Want to know more? Read about implants at VLIJT, look at the alternative of crowns and bridges, or sign up for an appointment.
